Voicemails for Isabelle (2026)

Voicemails for Isabelle is written and directed by Leah McKendrick, whose previous acting work included a small role in I Know What You Did Last Summer. Here she steps behind the camera with a romantic comedy that aims to balance humor and modern relationships, but the screenplay struggles under the weight of uneven characterization. Much of the dialogue comes across as forced, and the humor often leans into exaggerated "girl boss" moments that quickly become repetitive. The biggest weakness is that nearly every male character, with one exception, is written as either incompetent or one-dimensional, leaving the story feeling less like a balanced romantic comedy and more like a collection of caricatures. As a result, the central romance never develops the emotional foundation it needs.

Zoey Deutch, known for Set It Up and Zombieland: Double Tap, plays Jill and gives an energetic performance, but the screenplay works against her. The character is repeatedly described as exceptionally lovable, yet her actions and dialogue often make her difficult to connect with. Deutch does what she can with the material, but the writing emphasizes confidence over vulnerability, making it harder to invest in her personal journey.

Nick Robinson, known for Charlie Harper and Jurassic World, plays the primary love interest, Wes. Robinson delivers his lines convincingly, but the character is given very little agency. Every single anti-toxic masculine feature is on display here, he kisses another man, he's in touch with his feelings, strength with kindness and believes in collaboration over competition. Rather than feeling like an equal half of the relationship, he often exists simply to support Isabelle's story, leaving the romance feeling one-sided and underdeveloped.

Overall, Voicemails for Isabelle is a romantic comedy that struggles because of its screenplay more than its performances. While Zoey Deutch and Nick Robinson are capable leads, they are held back by dialogue and characterizations that rarely feel authentic. The result is a film that never finds the emotional balance or charm needed to make its romance work. Voicemails for Isabelle has moments of potential, but its writing ultimately undermines them. Result: D-

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